Anutin brushes off reported Cambodian arrest warrant over Chong An Ma visit
Anutin says his Chong An Ma visit followed Thai law and the December 27 Joint Statement as Cambodia considers an arrest warrant.
Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has dismissed reports that the Cambodian side is considering charges and an arrest warrant against him over his recent visit to the disputed Chong An Ma border area in Ubon Ratchathani.
Cambodia has protested Anutin’s August 23 visit, alleging that he entered Cambodian territory without authorisation. Thailand has rejected the allegation, maintaining that the visit took place on the Thai side and complied with the Joint Statement agreed by both countries on December 27, 2025.
Asked about the reported arrest threat at Naval Training Ground No. 15, or Hat Yao, in Sattahip district, Chonburi, on Thursday (August 27), Anutin replied: “Really? What do you want me to say? I acted in accordance with the law. I have the Joint Statement in hand, which was signed by the leaders of both countries.”
Responding to Cambodia’s objection to his inspection of military readiness along the border, Anutin said his actions were consistent with the agreement.
“The Joint Statement says that each side should remain in its existing position,” he said. “If they also comply with the Joint Statement, that can lead to discussions. But if they do not comply, I do not know how discussions can proceed.”
The Thai Foreign Ministry has said Anutin travelled to Chong An Ma to assess conditions and encourage Thai personnel carrying out their duties, adding that the visit did not alter the border or breach the ceasefire arrangement. Thailand also reiterated its commitment to resolving differences peacefully through existing bilateral mechanisms.
The Cambodian government refers to the area as An Ses and claims it lies in Preah Vihear province. Thailand maintains that unilateral territorial claims cannot settle a disputed boundary and says the issue must be addressed through mechanisms agreed by both countries.
Anutin inspects Royal Thai Navy operations
Anutin made the comments during a visit to Royal Thai Navy units in Sattahip, where he inspected a guard of honour and received honorary special-warfare and Royal Thai Navy parachutist insignia in recognition of his contribution to the service.
He later travelled by helicopter from U-Tapao Airport to HTMS Chakri Naruebet, which was operating in the Gulf of Thailand.
The prime minister inspected operations aboard the aircraft carrier and received a briefing on the Royal Thai Navy’s operational readiness, maritime-security capabilities and use of military equipment.
